Do you remember lying on the grass and finding dragons in the sky?
As children, we had all the time in the world to stare at clouds. As grown-ups, we mostly glance up to check whether it is going to rain on the washing.
This week, why not take 15 minutes for a little hygge moment and watch the clouds like you did as a kid? No goal, no reason. Just you, the sky and a bit of imagination.
A sheep-shaped cloud is a very good start.
Make it cosy
Find a patch of open sky and bring along:
- A thick blanket or picnic rug to lie on
- A cushion or rolled-up jumper for your head
- Warm layers, as the ground can be cool
- A drink and a biscuit for afterwards
- Sunglasses if it is bright
Your 15 minutes of sky gazing
- Lie right back. Let the ground hold you and your arms flop out to the side.
- Pick a cloud. Choose one and follow it slowly across the sky.
- Find a shape. An animal, a face, a teapot. There are no wrong answers.
- Watch it change. See how it stretches, breaks apart or becomes something new.
- Let your mind wander. Daydream freely, just as you used to.
Slow it right down
You might feel a bit silly at first, a grown woman lying on the lawn. Let that feeling go. Being a little bit playful is good for the soul.
As you watch the sky, try to notice:
- How fast or slow the clouds are moving today
- The different shades of white, grey and blue
- The feel of the ground firm beneath your back
- Any old memories that float up with the shapes
Finish gently
Sit up slowly, have a stretch and enjoy your drink before you go back to the day. A few minutes of looking up can be a lovely 15-minute pause in a busy week.
You could also:
- Invite your children to lie down and play along
- Watch from a window seat on a chilly day
- Sketch your favourite shape in a notebook
- Look up for a minute every time you step outside
Your 15-minute challenge
Today, give yourself 15 minutes.
Lay down a blanket. Lie back. Look up.
Then see what the clouds turn into.
It does not have to be a blue-sky day. It does not have to make any sense.
It just has to be today.
Your inner child has been waiting for this.
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